Lucknow, Aug. 24 -- Women will be provided free travel in UPSRTC buses on Raksha Bandhan as part of the state government's arrangements for the festival, transport minister Daya Shankar Singh said on Sunday. The minister directed officials to ensure safe, smooth and convenient travel amid the expected rush of passengers, particularly women and children. He ordered pre-festival fitness and technical checks of all buses and said no vehicle in an unsafe condition should be operated. Drivers and conductors must be checked before deployment to ensure they are not under the influence of alcohol or drugs, with strict action for violations. Private bus, taxi and e-rickshaw operators have also been asked to ensure police/character verification of drivers. The minister directed officials to remain in the field and crack down on overloading, overspeeding, unauthorised passenger transport in goods vehicles and tractor-trolleys, loud DJ systems and illegal vehicle modifications. htc...